As golfers, we put a lot of weight on new stuff. The newest putter, wedge, driver. But unfortunately, none of these pieces of equipment will be able to lower your score in quite the way that you want or expect them to.
Do you know what can, though? The rangefinder! While this piece of equipment won’t change the way you swing it will change the way you play. The best golf rangefinder helps you to get around the course smarter which will empower you to a lot more strategic in how you play.
I have taken the liberty of assimilating a list of ten of my favorite rangefinders on the market. So, with that in mind, read on for some handy rangefinder reviews!
Should I get a GPS or Laser Golf Rangefinder?
This is the first question you need to answer when you begin your search for the best golf rangefinder. The answer comes down to what you hope to get out of your rangefinder.
While GPS device units are extremely easy to use and work with virtually little-to-no effort, they are not quite as accurate as a laser golf rangefinder. Laser rangefinders feature a technology that will “lock” onto the pin position, which is great for higher-end golfers.
The laser golf rangefinder will tell you the distance to where the physical hole is, while GPS units will get you an accurate distance to the green but nothing more. If you are just starting out golfing and are looking for some help in judging distances, a GPS rangefinder will work well.
But if you are a seasoned golf player that knows their clubs well, knowing the exact pin position can help you know exactly which club to pick.
What is the Difference Between a golf Rangefinder and a Hunting Rangefinder?
There are some distinct differences in the colors, waterproofing, and low-light operation when comparing hunting and golfing rangefinders. Golf rangefinders will typically come in plain colors and while many are waterproof, these are two things that hunting rangefinders will consider differently.
Hunting rangefinders will come with camouflage or a flat brown color usually and they will usually be better at resisting lens fog. Hunters will be out in the woods or the mountains in much harsher conditions than most people, therefore, their equipment needs to be able to handle this better than alternatives. Hunting rangefinders will not have a pin seeker technology cue like a vibration or noise either. This is because they need complete silence out there and these technologies will not help that out.
Which Golf Rangefinder Should I buy?
Several factors will weigh into your decision regarding which rangefinder to buy. At the top of the list will be the budget.
Golf rangefinders have a wide (VERY wide) range of prices, but the good thing is that there is a rangefinder for virtually any budget. After considering your budget, there are several other factors that you will want to address. The next important thing for us is accuracy.
Nearly all laser rangefinders will be accurate measurement to within a yard or two of the pin placements. GPS units will be accurate to the green distance but not as accurate for the exact pin position because most courses constantly change them.
After these characteristics, you can now have a little leeway to pick and choose the best golf rangefinder for you. Each person will have their own personal preferences regarding size, digital readout, and magnification.
All these things will be discussed further in the article, but it is important to remember the perfect rangefinder for you will be different from the next person.
What Should I be looking for in a Rangefinder?
Accuracy
Aside from budget, this is the most important thing to consider when buying a golf rangefinder. There are dozens of brands out there you can choose from and finding a reputable brand that is most importantly accurate is beyond important.
Both GPS and laser golf rangefinders will be accurate when it comes to finding the exact distance between your shot and the green. Still, laser rangefinders will be more accurate when you want to know the distance between a specific flagstick or another target.
One nice thing that GPS units do in terms of accuracy is to give you the ability to find the distance of a shot that may not be directed toward a flagstick or specific target. Your second shot will often be called “Laying Up” if you are too far away from the green on longer holes. GPS will allow you to find the exact distance to the best area to lay up. A laser golf rangefinder can do this as well, but there must be a target for the laser to reflect off.
Ease of Use
Finding a reliable, high-quality golf rangefinder that is also easy to use is one of the most sought-after things you could find in a rangefinder. You will find some subtle differences between the ease of use when it comes to the different brands of laser rangefinders and the GPS-style rangefinder.
GPS Golf Rangefinders
One of the biggest draws to a GPS golf rangefinder is how easy they are to use. Assuming your GPS watch or you have another GPS-style rangefinder, odds are the course yardage will be available to you with no effort or downloading needed.
The beauty of the GPS rangefinder is that no matter where you are on the course, the GPS will know where you and how far away you are from the green or a lay-up area on longer holes. There is no pointing and shooting, or really anything that you must do to get the distance to the green.
Laser Rangefinders
While it is more accurate than other golf rangefinder styles, the laser rangefinder has a bit more to it when it comes to using it.
The laser rangefinder will typically be a handheld device that features a single optic and a button on top that you can press when you settle the optic on the target. When you are far away from the pin or a specific target, this can be a bit difficult but there is a ton of evolutionary technology built-in that will help you settle in on a pin or target.
The laser rangefinder’s overall process is simple and straight, easy to use but does require a bit more effort than GPS rangefinders.
Distance Range
Years ago, distance with rangefinders was a huge sticking point, especially with laser rangefinders. With GPS-style rangefinders, the distance will not usually come into play because it is based on global positioning coordinates, rather than a fixed point like a laser rangefinder.
One caveat should be pointed out with the distance requirements of a laser rangefinder, and that is not how far a rangefinder can reach, but rather the closest distance it can scan.
Almost every golf rangefinder today will be able to reach out to 500 (usually more) yards easily. But the thing you should be aware of more is the minimum amount of distance it can record.
Because the laser needs to hit the target and come back to the device, it can be tough for this to happen if it is too close. Do not worry though, modern technologies can calculate objects as close as 3 yards away, which will rarely be a distance you need to calculate.
Speed
For those of you that like to golf with pace, your rangefinder’s speed will weigh heavy in your search for the best golf rangefinder. When it comes to golf GPS rangefinders, the speed is almost a non-factor. Almost all GPS units will always be tracking your distance and yardage so as you move, so, therefore, the GPS rangefinder will be updating automatically with little-to-no lag time.
When it comes to laser rangefinders, you will see the difference in speed from model to model. One thing that will remain consistent though is that the further the target you are trying to scan, the longer the response and display time will be. But with more established brands and a higher-end rangefinder, you will see an increase in speed compared to lower-end models.
But after reviewing dozens of different rangefinders, the difference in speed will only be noticeable with the top-of-the-line rangefinders when being compared to the cheaper models.
Price
Like any other product we want to buy, the price will weigh heavily into our decision. Rangefinders have an enormous range of prices and because of this, it is easy to get rid of several options right off the bat. On our top 10 list earlier in the article, those prices range from less than $100 all the way up to $600.
When you are deciding on the best golf rangefinder for you, you will notice the large disparity in pricing right away but the understanding of what features and characteristics drive that price up is harder to identify.
Our best advice to spend the most you can on a rangefinder and to find a reputable brand. The old phrase, “What you see is what you get” could not apply more to rangefinders and optics in general.
The further up the price spectrum you go, the more user-friendly features, and better optics you will see. Another thing to consider is your overall commitment to the game of golf and how much you will be using the rangefinder. If you are a casual weekend golf player, a rangefinder will be well worth it but maybe you do not need some of the fancier features a tournament player or aspiring professional will need.
Display
The display is important to me as a golfer, but it may not be as important to others. Finding a display that you are comfortable with is the most important thing. By display, we are referring to how to the yardage is shown to you.
GPS Unit
With a GPS unit, you will see some differences in models in terms of how specific the yardage is (decimal places) and the yardage’s size and color. Typically, GPS units displays will vary depending on whether you have a golfing watch or using a rangefinder equipped elsewhere, like in your golf cart. The watch-style GPS will be where there is a large difference in display. The size, and color will be the biggest differences from watch to watch but the best color display that we have found is black, and that seems to be standard.
Laser Rangefinder
The display on the laser rangefinders is one of the most important factors in choosing a laser rangefinder. When we refer to the display, we are talking about how the yardage is shown to you through the optics.
You will see that there are different icons or reticles on each rangefinder. You will see a reticle when looking into the rangefinder and is what you are supposed to aim at your target. It is essentially your frame of reference while looking through your rangefinder. A square reticle is usually the best in our opinion.
Another important factor with a laser rangefinder is the color of the reticle and yardage display. Depending on the type of terrain the golf course has, some colors will be harder to see than others and some people see colors differently as well. Throughout our research, red and black seem to be the best colors. They are the easiest to see in the widest variety of conditions.
Battery Life
You never want to be halfway through your round and have your rangefinder lose battery life, leaving you shooting blind the rest of the day. Ensure that your rangefinder is rated to have great battery life and that if it requires charging, you charge it fully after each round.
Typically, the only types of rangefinders that will rely on a battery are the GPS rangefinders, and more commonly, the watch-style GPS rangefinders. I wear a watch every day with this technology, and I always charge it fully every day.
When it comes to a laser rangefinder’s battery life, this is something that requires some research. The style of battery is something we always keep an eye out for here, and the reason is that some batteries last longer than others, and more advanced battery systems can charge while they are not in use. We always try to find something with a lithium battery, but something that is also easy to change batteries in and out. I use rangefinders for both golf and hunting, and no matter what, I have several extra sets of batteries ready to go as backups. We suggest you do the same.
Waterproof
Yes, you should get a waterproof rangefinder! We cannot stress enough how important this is for ensuring that you have all your tools at your disposal throughout the entire round of golf.
Most units are waterproof these days, but some cheaper versions do not come with this feature. Skip those and make sure you by one that will keep spitting out yardages, no matter how wet it is out there. Try to do your best to find one that features a lens and optic that is anti-fog as well.
I typically golf earlier in the morning and often, it is cold and a bit foggy outside. One of the worst things is when your optic on your laser rangefinder cannot be seen because there is fog or condensation on the lens.
Slope Measurement Capabilities
Also known as, ARC technology, your rangefinder’s ability to take elevation into account will matter greatly when you are taking shots from an elevated area.
Elevation weighs heavily into the distance to the target because the higher up you are, the distance will be shorter than what a rangefinder without slope measurement capabilities will show.
In terms of training tools, a rangefinder that can handle slope measurements is phenomenal for training and learning how to judge shot distances that are elevated. Most tournaments that are sponsored by the PGA or any other golf outfit will not allow you to use a rangefinder with ARC technology.
Pin Seeking Technology
To me, this is one of the most underrated aspects of a golf rangefinder, especially when it comes to laser rangefinders. With the GPS rangefinders, it is not as important because these typically do not have the ability to find the exact pin position, but rather just the distance to the middle of the green.
With the laser rangefinder, you will find that there are several options available that can key onto the flagstick. By placing the reticle on the flagstick or another target in your range, rangefinders that have pin seeking technology will give you a cue of some sort to let you know that the rangefinder has locked in on the target.
Once this cue is given, you can then be confident that the yardage being shown is accurate measurement to that object. The most common cue that most rangefinders have is a vibration that occurs when it locks into the pin. This is also our favorite pin-seeking cue that we have tested and if a laser rangefinder does not have it, we typically stay away.
Case/Storage
When it comes to GPS watches or other types of GPS rangefinders, there typically is not much in the way of storage or cases unless you bring your own cart-mounted unit, which is rare. But when it comes to laser golf rangefinders, it is an entirely different story.
Laser rangefinders will have a case or some sort of storage with them and it is important when you are not playing that your high-dollar optics stay safe. However, there is a side of the storage world that comes into play that most golfers forget about, and that is where they put the rangefinder when they ARE playing golf.
Lots of people will keep it in their golf bag, which is fine, but you may be annoyed that you have to constantly be removing it from the storage case if you want to keep it protected. If you are like me and usually use a golf cart, there are some features that you will want to keep in mind, but there is one feature that we absolutely love.
Lots of rangefinders will have a magnetic strip attached to them that can stay attached to the sidebar on the cart so that it is easy to grab and put away almost immediately. We love this idea and even though it is a tiny thing, it is something you’ll be happy you did.
1.Bushnell Tour V4 JOLT Laser Golf Rangefinder
- This laser rangefinder weighs less than 1 pound is fully waterproof.
- The lens has a magnifier that zooms in 6 times closer to the target from where you are standing, making it easier to lock in on your target.
- It features a pin-seeking jolt that alerts you when it locks in on the flagstick or other target.
- This laser rangefinder has a range beyond 450 yards and has slope feature technology.
Pros
I was particularly partial to the optics that this rangefinder provides. The image quality is extremely vivid, making it an outstanding way to get a close look at the pine.
Cons
The price tag is fairly overwhelming. That’s more or less what you get with Bushnell products.
Our top choice is both durable and extremely precise. The rangefinder has a maximum range of up to one thousand yards. Not only that, but it is accurate in its measurements up to three feet.
Indeed, this is what you might call the Cadillac of rangefinders. I also just like the way this product feels in your hand. The exterior consists of a durable rubber coating that will be able to withstand regular use and even a small drop should such a thing occur.
The product is also sealed to be resistant to moisture and fog. Last but not least, it also includes a pin-seeing technology that will make it as easy as possible to lock onto the flagstick. When you do line up with the stick, the unit vibrates so that you know you’re getting a read on your actual target.
Unfortunately, though, this is one of the more expensive products that are featured on our list. Such is the case with Bushnell rangefinder products. They cost an arm and a leg, but the quality is pretty much unbeatable.
Read the full review: Bushnell Pro X2
2.Precision Pro Golf, NX7 Pro Slope Golf Rangefinder
- This laser rangefinder comes with a maximum range of 400 yards and displays in 1/10th-yard increments.
- It comes with a free lifetime replacement warranty on the battery and a 2-year service warranty on all other components.
- The NX7 has Target Acquisition Technology (TAG) that locks in on targets and provides a vibration to confirm,
- The lens has 6X magnification, which is standard among golf rangefinders.
Pros
I really loved the fact that you get all of the high-end features typically associated with rangefinders, all for a price that doesn’t completely overwhelm you.
Cons
That four-hundred-yard maximum range is a little bit unimpressive. Granted, no one is going to be seeking the pin from four hundred yards out, but still, compared to other units on the list this feature falls flat.
This is a great option for golf players that want the best features they can get their hands on without paying hundreds and hundreds of dollars to get it.
Granted, it is still fairly pricey, but it beats out the Bushnell and still provides you all of the quality you could possibly want. This unit features a pulse vibration component that activates anytime the flag comes within your sites.
It also features slope reading technology that will tell you how up or downhill your shot is. This element gives you a more accurate perception of how much distance you have to the hole. For example, you may be 130 yards out, but if the hole is downhill, it could play more like 100 yards.
Last but not least, the company even provides a lifetime battery replacement offer that will keep the equipment running indefinitely.
I was a little surprised to see how limited the viewing golf range is. Most higher-end units can go up to one thousand yards without issue. Four hundred should be sufficient, but it doesn’t compare as well to products like the Bushnell rangefinder.
3.TecTecTec VPRO500 Rangefinder
- It comes with TecTecTec’s Pin Seeking technology mode that allows you to dial in on your target easily.
- The laser rangefinder has a maximum range of 540 yards and will instantly respond no matter what distance.
- It is entirely waterproof and weighs just a mere 6.52 ounces, making it one of the lightest options.
- The lens comes with a 6X magnification rating, allowing you to find the target easily.
Pros
This is one of the best deals on our list. The affordable project still manages to pack great features at an affordable price.
Cons
The durability and optics are a little bit lacking here.
TecTecTec is one of my favorite companies out there when it comes to the world of rangefinder equipment. They produce really excellent stuff at an affordable price.
It’s a smaller company and there are certain things they just don’t do great as a result. For one thing, the exterior of the tool is not exceptionally durable. If it takes a big drop, you’ll probably need to replace it.
The optics also are not amazing. You’ll be able to find the pin but it isn’t going to be as vivid as that of some of the other units on our list.
However, what it lacks in image quality it more than makes up for in special features and value. For a price that can’t be beaten, you get the benefit of the invaluable pin seeker technology.
This feature notifies you when you have zeroed in on the flagstick. It’s also lightweight and compact enough that it can be comfortably stowed away in your pocket.
In short, this tool accomplishes many of the same things that the higher-end units do, but at roughly half the price. You do make a few small concessions, but most people will be more than willing to make the tradeoff.
Read the full review: Tectectec Vpro500 rangefinder – Review
4.Callaway 300 Pro Golf Laser Golf Rangefinder With Slope Feature
- This laser golf rangefinder can read distances between 5 and 1000 yards with an error rate of 1 yard.
- It uses pin acquisition technology (P.A.T.) to quickly lock in on flagstick up to 300 yards away.
- This rangefinder has a slope calculation feature that can be turned off during tournament play.
- It weighs a mere 7 ounces, making it one of the lightest we have seen thus far.
Pros
I love the overall efficiency of this product. The slope measurement and pin seeker technology make it as easy to use as you could ever want.
Cons
The actual optical element of this piece is lacking. The image quality just doesn’t give you the same precise look at the flagstick that some of the other units provide.
Callaway has been making amazing golf equipment for decades. However, in recent years, they have also been branching out into the supplementary gear niche. This rangefinder is a proud testimony to their success in that department.
It features slope measurements, durable housing, a moderate price tag, and the pin-seeking sensors that we’ve so appreciated in other units on this list.
The only real shortcoming that we’ve noticed pertains to the actual quality of the viewing lens. The image quality is not exceptionally precise which means when you are peeping the green from a couple of hundred yards out, the view might be a little bit fuzzy.
It’s not a dealbreaker by any stretch but it is something to keep in mind. The price does compensate for this shortcoming somewhat as well. Though not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, it is more affordable than many of the other products on this list that provide a similar level of quality.
5.Garmin Approach Z82, Golf GPS Laser Rangefinder
- This rangefinder is a combination of the GPS-Style system and the more common laser rangefinder.
- When you look down the lens, you will get a birds-eye view of the hole, distances to the front, center, and back of the green, along with a reticle to capture the exact distance to the hole.
- This unit is compatible with smartphones and, when paired, will show you the wind direction and speed when you are looking down the lens.
Wow, simply wow. The Garmin Z82 uses a combination of golf GPS range-finding characteristics along with the mobility and accuracy of the laser-style to give you everything you need and more from your system.
Garmin is a worldwide leader in optics and outdoor gear and with everything, they offer in this unit, it easy to see why. When you look down the lens, you will be amazed at the level of detail you see. A full overhead view of the hole, hazards highlighted, and without even touching the button to scan distance, you will know how far it is to the front, middle, and back of the green.
Once you do need to use the unit’s laser aspects, the pin seeker technology will help you lock in on the pin in mere seconds.
Garmin featured their image stabilization technology with this unit, and I was amazed at how much it helped me find the pin and keep the unit from shaking. While the price tag of the Z82 may seem high, this unit is guaranteed to take your game to the next level. You get all the bells and whistles in this package, and Garmin knocked it out of the park.
Pros
- The smartphone syncing is amazing. Your rangefinder can tell you the wind speed and keep score for you!
- Because there is an overhead view of the hole, the rangefinder will display all hazards and their dimensions.
- The GPS portion of the rangefinder comes preloaded with over 41,000 courses on it!
- It uses a combination of image stabilization and vibration to help lock in on the flag and let you know.
Cons
- We had some trouble locking onto flag sticks from further out than 200 yards.
6.PEAKPULSE Golf Laser Rangefinder with Flag Acquisition
- This rangefinder has an easy-focus system that allows you to turn the lens to adjust the focus quickly.
- It features flag-finding technology and has a pulsing vibration that lets you know that it has locked onto the flag.
- The rangefinder has slope calculating technology, but you can turn it off easily for tournament play.
- It is 100% waterproof and fog proof with a maximum range of 500 yards.
We were not expecting a lot out of it for a rangefinder with a price tag under $120. But to this point, we have been blown away with the features and reliability that the 6Pro provides.
It has a sleek design that features a lens with 6X magnification for easy target identification and the battery life features are great. If the unit does not detect any usage for 8 seconds, it will shut itself off automatically allowing you to save battery life and get the most out of the unit.
The easy change from slope mode to standard is the best solution for players who want to practice with slope calculation and still want to use the same unit for tournaments.
We love when rangefinders come with a lens focusing feature that is not only effective but easy, and this model checks both those boxes.
The eyepiece’s housing is easily twisted to help you focus the lens to work with your vision. Most units have these in one capacity or another, but they can ineffective and sometimes not work very well.
Pros:
- The price is a major pro, it comes in under $130, making it a steal with all the features.
- It turns off automatically 8 seconds after the last usage, saving battery life.
- We were very impressed with the easy-focus features that the PeakPulse offers, even if you wear glasses, it is easy to adjust to fit your vision.
- The slope calculating technology is simple to turn off and we love the models that can do both. It is the best solution for practice and tournament play.
Cons:
- If there is no background beyond the pin, we seemed to have trouble locking into it.
7.Nikon Coolshot 20i GII Golf Laser Slope Rangefinder
- The range of the unit can read distances between 6-800 yards and has a 1-yard error rate.
- It has two different indicators to alert you when your target is locked in, an LED light or a vibration.
- The lens has 6X magnification and Nikon’s unit features a multi-coating that will increase the brightness.
- It has a scan feature that allows you to hold down the button and it will continuously scan as you move the unit.
With a brand name like Nikon, you can expect excellence. They have long been known as one of the most reliable optic brands in the world, and with their recent introduction into the world of golf, it seems like they are bound to be a popular choice.
The optic is one of the clearest we have seen for a unit under $250, and with their water and fog proof design, you know it will work for a long time.
It features a slope calculation function that can easily be toggled on and off, which is our favorite feature for golfers who want to use both. The continuous scan mode works great and allows you to keep the button held down while you scan multiple objects. This feature is great if you choose between clubs on a lay-up or want to know the distance to the back of the green versus the front.
Pros:
- The 800-yard maximum distance is further than many other units at this price.
- There is a small dial on the front of the unit that is used to focus the lens, it works well and is easy to adjust.
- It features a first target priority mode that ensures your rangefinder is picking up on your target and not the background.
- It has a slope function calculation mode that can easily be turned off for tournament play.
Cons
- The display numbers could be darker, we found them hard to read at times.
8.Gogogo Laser Rangefinder for Golf
- It features a pin-seeking technology that can pick out the flagstick or the actual flag along with a vibration signal.
- It has slope calculating technology with this unit that can be turned off easily for tournaments.
- The lens is coated multiple times to help increase the transmission of light.
- It can effectively range objects from 5-650 yards away.
When you are a budget-conscious shopper, a golfing rangefinder under $110 is something many would find as a steal. But is it worth it? Absolutely! The Gogogo unit is one of the best values for your dollar rangefinders out there and is loaded with features for the price.
We were impressed with how clear and bright the optic was when looking through it, and the pin-lock technology. Both are well above the price tag and are a great feature.
This system comes with slope calculating technology that can be turned off and on easily, which is great for weekend golfers and tournament players. It has a long-range and a low error rate, which ensures you have confidence that you will grab the right club for the distance.
The battery life is admirable and because of the low battery indicator, you will know the exact time to change them out.
Pros
- The price is under $110, which is one the lowest we have seen, but it performs much better.
- It comes with a diopter that allows you to adjust the focus easily and efficiently.
- The flagpole-lock works very well, and the vibration alert makes it very clear that you have locked-on.
- This unit has a low battery indicator, which we love. The last thing you want to do is run out while on the course.
Cons
- The carrying case leaves a lot to be desired, it is just not efficient.
9.TACKLIFE Laser Golf Range Finder 900 Yard
- This laser rangefinder has a maximum range of 900 yards, longer than many others.
- It can toggle between meters and yards with the simple click of a button.
- The battery is a rechargeable lithium battery that can be charged via USB and is a very quick charge.
- It comes with a lens that features 7x magnification, which allows you to see further and range easier.
For less than $100, this laser rangefinder works great for golf and a variety of other activities for a fraction of the price. The 7x magnifying lens is a more impressive feature and is the largest zoom lens we have on our list.
The easy lens adjustment allows you to focus the lens to your eyesight and works well for eye and sunglasses. The reticle within the lens is also clear and easy to place onto your target.
The slope function technology can be easily turned off for tournament play and the flag-seeking technology works great once you get it configured.
We were impressed by the speed of the unit and the preciseness of the distance measurement. Its maximum range of 900 yards is among the furthest we have seen as well. It does not come with stabilization technology, but it is easy to stabilize because it is a heavier unit.
Pros
- It features pin-locking technology that allows you to lock into the flagstick, which we appreciate easily.
- There is a slope calculating technology with this system that can be turned off easily for tournament play.
- We love the quality of the carrying case. It is a hard-shell case that protects the unit well and carries all the chords for charging.
Cons
- The instructions are not very clear, and it can be difficult to figure out.
10.Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized Golf Rangefinder
- Slope measurement.
- Amazing optics.
- Pin finder.
- Self stabilizes.
Pros
All of the features are truly maxed out here. It is as accurate, clear and effective as a rangefinder can be.
Cons
You could get a set of used irons for the price that you pay here.
Obviously, Nikon knows how to make a good lens. If you’re looking for the best piece of optical equipment that you can get your hands on this is a product that would be truly hard to beat.
The image quality is out of this world, and it features slope measurements and pins-seeking technology. The unit is even able to self-stabilize so that shaky hands won’t get in the way of getting the most accurate reading possible.
It’s durable, waterproof, and also resistant to dirt fog, and grime. In short, it’s about as good as a rangefinder can possibly get.
However, buyers on a tighter budget should try to refrain from getting overly excited. This is far and away from the most expensive unit on our list. For the money that you spend here, you could possibly pick up a used set of irons, or an extremely high-end driver.
Check Nikon Coolshot Full Reviews here.
11.Leupold 119087 GX-3i2 Digital Golf Rangefinder
- Stylish design.
- Ergonomic build.
- Great optics.
- Image stability.
Pros
I’m partial to the design concept here. It’s a stylish-looking design that comes with a durable comfortable exterior.
Cons
The features aren’t quite as sophisticated as some of the other options on our list.
I quite like the look of the Leupold. It’s a stylishly designed unit that features a rubberized durable build. The exterior of the unit is made to be resistant to drops as well as moisture and dirt.
In addition to being durable, the build is also ergonomic. This means it will feel comfortable in your hand even after prolonged periods of use.
Last but not least, great optics tie the offering altogether. However, despite the good look and the most satisfying performance, there is a bit of a value concern to bear in mind. It’s one of the more expensive options on our list today.
For your money, you could get something with even better features. If you’re in love with the look, this is still an awesome pick to consider though.
12. TecTecTec ULT-X Golf Rangefinder
- The TecTecTec laser rangefinder has a 1000-yard maximum scanning range with an error rate of less than 1 yard.
- This unit comes with a patented technology called, Target Lock Technology (TLT) that will instantly lock onto flag sticks within 450 yards.
- The lens comes with a 6X magnifier, making it ultra-easy to see your target.
Pros
It’s a great way to get extremely high-end features at a fairly moderate price.
Cons
Like most TecTectTec products, the optics do leave something to be desired.
This rangefinder is going to be a great way for budget buyers to get the latest and greatest in rangefinder technology. It includes a slop reader, a flag-seeking mode, a massive one thousand yard range, and a fairly moderate price tag.
Essentially, this is just an upgraded version of the last TecTecTec that we looked at. It’s more expensive than the other option that we looked at, but it is still going to be a little pricy for buyers that are on a truly restrictive budget.
Unfortunately, none of the upgrades seem to have gone towards the quality of the lens itself. The optics are not an enormous problem—you will still be able to view the green with clarity but some of the finer details might be a little bit lacking.
My personal opinion is that this isn’t an enormous deal. The user experience is still really solid, and the TecTecTec gives you tons of value for your money.
13.Bushnell Pro X2 Golf Laser Rangefinder
- This laser rangefinder weighs less than 1 pound is fully waterproof.
- The lens has a magnifier that zooms in 6 times closer to the target from where you are standing, making it easier to lock in on your target.
- It features a pin-seeking jolt that alerts you when it locks in on the flagstick or other target.
- This laser rangefinder has a range beyond 450 yards and has slope technology.
Pros
There is no question that this is an expert-level piece of equipment. There is truly nothing that this product doesn’t do when it comes to rangefinding.
Cons
You might need to take out a small loan to be able to afford this rangefinder. I’m joking. Kind of.
As we begin closing out our list, we come to another Bushnell product. The features are about as nice as you can get on a rangefinder. It is fully waterproof and hyper-durable so that it can withstand any sort of drop.
This unit reads for slope and produces a “jolt” (which essentially just a sharp vibration) the moment you lock into the pin.
The optics are also incredible. The viewing range here is up to one thousand yards, and you get a crystal clear image for absolutely all of it. Indeed, it is probably because of the excellent lenses that you pay so much for this product. It is one of the priciest units on our list which means only buyers that have a serious amount of money to throw down will be able to make it work.
One thing to keep in mind is that many of the features found here are also available in more affordable options like the TecTecTec. However, if you want everything done as well as possible, you’ll like the Bushnell.
14. Laser Range Finder – Tournament Legal – Scan Mode – Flag Lock
- Great data taking.
- Completely tournament legal.
- Great battery life.
- Very moderate price tag.
Pros
I’m most partial to the price tag of this unit. You get a pretty good price on a lot of high-end features usually found on only the very best pieces of equipment.
Cons
The optical quality and build of this tool are somewhat generic.
Second, to last, we look now to the Laser Range Finder. This product features an extremely competitive price on a slew of excellent features. Lithium-ion batteries ensure a long life expectancy. They also guarantee that you won’t need to be excessively recharging the equipment on a constant basis.
I was most impressed by the fact that this rangefinder gives you access to slope reading and pin-seeking technology. Ordinarily, these are features you need to pay a great deal of money to get, so it is nice to see them in this affordable package.
Unfortunately, the optics and build quality are somewhat lacking. The image clarity, as is the case with many of our more affordable picks, does leave something to be desired.
The build quality also leaves it vulnerable to drops and other physical wear and tear.
Naturally, you never want to see issues of this nature, but the priced tag does help to compensate somewhat.
15.Bushnell Bundle | 2018 Hybrid Golf Laser Rangefinder GPS
- Hybrid technology.
- Great batteries.
- Comes with accessories.
- User-friendly controls.
Pros
I’m super stoked about the hybrid golf GPS component. Granted, there are some redundancies when you combine a GPS and a rangefinder. However, it does help you to enjoy the very best and most accurate data possible.
Cons
It’s another case of Bushnell really charging an arm and a leg for their products. But of course, their stuff is so good that the product is still very tempting.
We close things out with a truly unique product. Unlike any of the other options on our list this unit actually combines the features of a GPS and a rangefinder into one convenient package.
This means that in addition to being able to look at the pin, you can also get data points on your distance to various hazards on the golf course. This is a great feature for anyone that wants to truly maximize their data.
The product also features an excellent battery life, easy-to-use controls, and of course, great optics just like all the other Bushnell products that we have seen.
It even comes with nice accessories like a ball marker and a carrying case. The price is very restrictive, but you do get a lot for your money.
How to use a golf rangefinder?
The beauty of the golf rangefinders is that they are beyond simple to use. Both the GPS and laser rangefinders are made with the user in mind and there is no added effort needed to run a rangefinder. There are some subtle differences between how you would use a GPS unit versus a laser rangefinder, but neither are too tough to figure out.
Golf GPS Rangefinder
There is virtually no effort when using a golf GPS rangefinder on the course but there are some things you need to do beforehand to ensure you are getting the most out of the Golf GPS rangefinder. First off, make sure that you are updating your unit as often as possible. Courses get added all the time and the last thing you want to do is get to the course and figure out your GPS does not have it. Also, make sure you charge your battery!
Laser Rangefinder
Using a laser rangefinder is slightly more involved than the alternative rangefinders but still simple and quick. Laser rangefinders are typically handheld devices that feature an optic you look through toward your target. When you are sitting in the fairway within the distance of the green, grab your rangefinder and look through the optic for the flag stick.
Once you are locked in on the target, simply press the button on the unit’s top and scan and display the distance. Settling on the target can be difficult so having a rangefinder that has sin-seeking technology will be a huge help. This is usually a vibration that signals to you that the user has locked on in a target.
Frequently Asked Question & Answered
Can you use a hunting rangefinder for golf purposes?
Sure, you can! The yardage will be the yardage, regardless of whether you are using a golf or hunting rangefinder. You will miss several things on though, the biggest of which is the pin-seeking characteristics that many golf rangefinders possess.
Hunters will not benefit from this technology because the vibration or noise would scare away the animal. But overall, if you do not have another option to use aside from a hunting rangefinder, it will work just fine.
Are laser rangefinders legal in golf?
Yes and no. Laser rangefinders are legal to use, but they cannot have slope calculating technology within them. This is because part of the game of golf includes judging shot distance and having the ability to tell the difference between elevated versus non-elevated shots. Some models will give you the chance to turn the ARC technology on and off, which is legal in some formats.
Should I buy a rangefinder with slope calculation?
This is a tricky question. The slope calculating technology is not legal in tournaments but is an invaluable practice tool for judging distance and elevation. If it were me, I would save up enough pennies to have both in my arsenal.
A training rangefinder and a tournament one. But if you do not play competitively, then absolutely try to get one with slope calculation. They will save you headaches and elevated holes and improve your game overall.
Are rangefinders legal for tournament play?
Most rangefinders are legal for tournament play. However, units that feature slope reading technology may not be. In these situations, you will need to check with the manufacturer to know for sure.
Do the pros use rangefinders?
Yes! Rangefinders are actually very popular for pros during their practice rounds.
Can rangefinders be used for examining hazards?
Kind of. Though they can be used to take a peek and get a rough estimate of your distances, they will do better with greens.
Conclusion
All of the products featured on our list today are really great at what they do. But, you do not want to buy all rangefinders. You want one great product that will help you play smarter, and make better decisions around the course.
When deciding on a rangefinder it’s important to factor in what kind of features are important to you. For example, slope reading and pin-seeking elements can make a rangefinder significantly more effective at what it does. The more features you get, the better your ultimate user experience will be.
However, extra features will also increase the overall price. You’ll just need to decide for yourself what elements of the device are most important to you.
